Steven Gerrard believes Bradley Barcola can “take Liverpool to the next level” as the 23-year-old prepares for a £123 million move from Paris Saint-Germain. The Reds have tracked the winger for most of the summer, with a transfer that seemed almost impossible months ago now close to completion.
Price tag drops from £145m
Barcola was initially valued at £145 million, a price set to deter potential suitors due to his age, potential, and importance to the Parisian club. However, his position in the squad has changed after falling behind Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue in the pecking order, as well as the recent arrivals of Maghnes Akliouche and Mika Godts at the Parc des Princes.
According to The Athletic, Liverpool will pay an initial £106 million for Barcola, with a further £17 million in potential add-ons.
Gerrard's verdict
Speaking on TNT Sports ahead of Liverpool's match against Nottingham Forest, Gerrard praised the acquisition. He said: “Incredible talent. This is a player who has won two Champions Leagues in the last two years.”
“I don't think he's hit his ceiling yet, still think there's potential there. Growth. He can evolve into an even better player which is very exciting. But it's the type of level of player that's gonna help take Liverpool to the next level. So I think it's a fantastic deal.”
